Dynamic task-related prefrontal functional networks evolved in Stroop Color-Word tasks measured by fNIRS

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Brain Network Dynamics

Background:

• Resting-state brain networks are well-studied, but dynamic functional connectivity during cognitive tasks is less understood.
• Investigating task-related functional networks, especially during continuous cognitive tasks, is crucial for understanding brain function.
• Current methods often focus on static connectivity, limiting insights into temporal brain organization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the temporal dynamics of prefrontal networks during continuous cognitive control.
• To apply dynamic functional connectivity analysis to understand evolving brain network organization.
• To identify specific prefrontal network components and their temporal engagement during executive functioning.

Main Methods:

• Utilized functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) during a continuous Stroop Color-Word task.
• Applied temporal group independent component analysis (TG-ICA) to analyze dynamic functional connectivity.
• Identified temporally evolving functional connectivity networks at the group level.

Main Results:

• Revealed three distinct prefrontal network components.
• Identified a left-lateralized network for rule implementation and executive control.
• Found a right-dominant network for conflict monitoring and attentional reallocation.
• Discovered a bilateral network supporting sustained goal maintenance and cognitive stability.
• Observed time-varying engagement of these networks aligned with cognitive control stages.

Conclusions:

• Temporal group independent component analysis (TG-ICA) is effective for capturing spatiotemporal brain network dynamics.
• The study provides new insights into the dynamic organization of the prefrontal cortex during executive functioning.
• Findings highlight the role of distinct, temporally evolving prefrontal networks in continuous cognitive tasks.